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Loved ones pay tribute to Michelle

A MALVERN woman who died two days after a car crash near Kidderminster was a loving and caring woman who always had a smile on her face, family members said this week.

Michelle Clifton, aged 41, of Meadowsweet Court, Poolbrook, was injured in the collision on Christmas Day. She was discharged from hospital after being treated, but collapsed and died at home on the afternoon of Friday, December 27.

A statement released by her family said: “She was a loving and caring woman and always had a smile on her face, making everyone laugh.

“Michelle loved spending her time with all of her family but her biggest hobby when she was younger was being part of Malvern Lynx Marching Band as their ‘tipper drummer’. She also enjoyed taking part in competitions with the band.”

Michelle was born and bought up in Malvern where she was educated at Somers Park Primary School and Dyson Perrins High School. Her three brothers and sister still live in the town.

Her sister Karen Brimmell said: “We are absolutely devastated and in total shock that Michelle has been taken away from us at such a young age.”

Her partner of seven years, Michelle Oakley, said: “Shelly was the youngest of five siblings and was a loving auntie to 13 nieces and nephews and great auntie to two.

“She had lived in Malvern for the majority of her life apart from a period when she was in South Wales. Shelly was a fun and entertaining character who would always put a smile on your face with her wacky impersonations, silly voices and her crazy dancing.”

Referring to Michelle’s time with the band, she added: “She thoroughly enjoyed playing the drums and would make up beats on practically anything using pens, pencils and even kitchen utensils.”

Michelle’s niece Laura Clifton added: “We are devastated that Shelly is no longer with us and her death has come as a big shock. She will be greatly missed by all her friends and family and anyone else who knew her.”

Michelle worked at the Court House Nursing Home in Malvern, where she had been on duty on the morning on Christmas Day. After her shift, she was on her way back to her partner and family when the collision occurred.

The funeral will be held at Christ Church, Avenue Road, Malvern, on Monday, January 20, at noon.